Awarded DCM - trying to find out why...

[Amy Kitcher]

I am researching a small memorial plaque in a disused welsh chapel and have come across the folowing soldier.

David Bow

Service no. 47277, Rifleman, 1st Bn. Royal Irish Rifles.

Died 05/10/1918 aged 22.

Son of Joseph and Ann Bow, of 30, Stuart St., Merthyr Tydfil, Glam.

Buried at Haringhe (Bandaghem) Military Cemetery.

Received the Distinguished Conduct Medal.

Can any one tell me why he was awarded this medal, or point me in the right direction?

Many thanks

Amy

[Tom Thorpe]

Amy,

Try RW Walker's book Recipients of the DCM 1914-1920, Midland Medals: Birmingham 1981. I found a copy at the IWM and gave me some basic info.

Also, try National Archives (http://www.nationalarchives.gov.uk/familyhistory/guide/army/medalrolls.htm) series WO 32 for citations etc.

To find out the circumstances suggest you look at the War diary, Battalion history and other such documents. There may be an old comrades journal which may give some light on the events.

Hope this is useful.

Tom

[John84]

Amy ...here is his DCM citation.

John

47277 Rfn. D. Bow, let Bn., R. Ir. Rif.

(MJeitiiyr TydvH).

As No. 1 of his Lewis-gun team during the

fighting south of Dadizeele on 4th October,

1918, he showed most conspicuous gallantry

and devotion to duty. During an enemy

attack he went out into No Man's Land

under heavy maohine-gun fire and inflicted

very heavy casualties on the enemy, thereby

greatly assisting in the defence of our position.

He was wounded in two places, but

refused to go to the rear, as he knew that

no other Lewis-gunner was available, and

carried on until severely wounded by shell

fire. His grit and courage were most

marked.

http://www.gazettes-online.co.uk/archiveVi...&selHonourType=

[Amy Kitcher]

John,

Thank you so much for finding this for me. I am very grateful.

Best Wishes

Amy